The Magickal Pen

 The Hebrew Letters and The Qabalistic Tree

The Hebrew alphabet is called the Aleph-Beth and each of 22 letters is assigned to a specific Path on the Tree of Life. Each letter has multiple meanings associated with it and carries the energy of the specific word associated with it. When used in conjunction with the attribute and energy of the Path of connection on which it is placed, there is a greater depth of esoteric knowledge to be gained about the inner keys and workings of that Path.

It should be noted that this is merely an extract of a much larger process of study and should only be considered as a piece of the greater puzzle of a Hermetic system that has its roots in Jewish Mysticism and has stood the test of time in its efficacy and use as a tool of deeper gnosis within the Western Hermetic Mysteries. I encourage you to look at the references at the end of this writing and formulate your own opinions about its fuller application to your own spiritual path. This post will provide some basic information about Kaph and its work on the Path of Opening.

Kaph is the Hebrew letter placed on the 21st Path connecting the spheres of Chesed and Netzach. Kaph means open hand, or specifically the “palm of the hand” in English. An open hand invites participation. The open hand indicates offering and receptiveness to what is offered or what is to be received. The center point of the hand is the palm. This is where all pools and accumulates in its fullest form and it is from this central space that what was accumulated flows freely out when the hand is opened and flattened. This energy speaks of the receptiveness to work co-creatively and in harmonious collaboration. In divination, the palm of the hand reveals ones destiny and choice is then offered by free will as to what will actually come of that pre-determined fate. This energy moves through this path of creative expression. The anticipated outcome from the influx of flow of each of the connecting spheres would be a product of elevated form. The test lay in what course is chosen as each has desire for its own dominance.

In order to understand the work of Kaph and its path, you need the point of reference of the connecting spheres that lay at either side of this path.

The Sphere of Chesed is also known as Gedulah or the sphere of majestic authority expressed through the refined Power of Love. The love of Chesed is one that has the ability to see well beyond what is ego driven desire and what is the correct alignment of heart infused by Higher Will. Chesed is known as the Mercy. Love and the broad perspective that is all inclusive becomes the merciful action that can justifiably wield its power in a place of Divine authority.

The Sphere of Netzach is the place of establishing the balance of hedonistic and aesthetic ideals. Love is the primary focus, but not at the expense of over indulgence in physical pleasure. This is also the place of expression of Love of Nature in all her forms and the creativity that is called forth to fulfill that task. Netzach is known as the sphere of Victory. The principle of victory here is not one of wanton take-over and infringement of another’s space, but rather victory that is found within the triumph over oneself.

The 21st Path is one of opportunity for grace. The state of grace has many meaning but within this path it is the reflection of the beginning of refinement of self and surroundings to become in alignment with the spiritual aspiration of selflessness and greater perspective. The lens of the camera opens and the world in which we claim our victories is seen for its narrow view. As the lens opens wider the expanse and truth of what we have claimed falls away and the real worth and value of those experiences is revealed as part of a larger whole that encompasses the victories of much more than ourselves. What happens in the stages between as each of the extremes coalesce on central ground determines the outcome of ascent to claim the Higher Self or descent for further refinement and accumulated experience.

The same may be said of the clenched fist that inflicts pain in its expansive thrust or the choice of reaching out with hand open to gently caress and comfort. The energy of Kaph is the choice of remaining in a state of openness. Of trust that all will be well when receptivity is available and also knowing that there are times that call for the harsh fist that crushes what it grasps. This is the ultimate lesson of Victory and Mercy and what measures will be taken towards the balance of each in accord with what is right action.

Each of the Paths of the Tree has the attribution of an element. The 21st Path is one of water. If we think of the properties of water and the image of the open hand the invitation is one of flowing and graceful movement. As we move our hands, currents of energy flow, move in response and are made to be responsive in a variety of ways. The great works of art created by the hand move the emotional waters within the individual.

Kaph is the path of opening. Kaph is the human expression of physical form reaching towards another. Kaph is victory that is birthed from the creative hand that gently holds the fragility of beauty in its palm. Kaph is the mercy that draws to itself ability to preserve life and then release it so it may soar.

Excerpted in part from:

The Inner Chamber Series: Volume 2
Poetry of the Spheres
R. Fennelly. February 2013. Serpent’s Gate

The Inner Chamber Series: Volume 3
Awakening the Paths
R.Fennelly. March 2014. Serpent’s Gate

For More Information: Robin Fennelly Books

To Find out More about the Hermetic Qabalah:

Qabalah Basics
The Might of Geburah(The Magickal Pen)

A Special Event Held Every 4+ Years

To Experience the Qabalistic Tree of Life:

Climbing the Tree (Weekend)
Hosted by The Assembly of the Sacred Wheel
Georgetown, Delaware
September 26-28.2014

About:
This is an immersive experience in the Hermetic Tree of Life taught with Pagan sensibilities. There will be workshops, pathworkings, a ritual, and evening discussions. The ritual involves literally walking the Lightening Flash from Malkuth to Kether with the experience of a mini-ritual within each Sphere. The glyph of the Tree is laid out in 9 foot circles connected by paths covering a large field. Climbing The Tree is an incredible experience to plant the tree deep with yourself. Pre-Registration is required.

In Preparation for Climbing the Tree I am teaching:

An Introduction to the Qabalah
Sunday, August 17.2014
5-Hr Intensive
Springfield, PA
Pre-registration is required